COLLECTED POEMS OF
CARRIE BADGETT
Arranged and Edited by
Joe Naumann
CONTENTS Preface ...... 11
Poems About Home and Family ...... 14 Off to College ...... 15 Transformation ...... 15 Just One Sentence ...... 16 My Prayer For My Children ...... 16 Sing ...... 17 Dreaming Of Home Tonight ...... 17 Baby Bruce ...... 18 My Son, Homer H. Badgett ...... 19 A DOZEN OF RED ROSES ...... 19 Eleanor Is Out ...... 20 My Eleanor is Out in the Night ...... 21 Dear Eleanor ...... 21 A Mother’s Dream for Her Daughter Eleanor ...... 22 La Rie ...... 22 Skipper is Gone, In His Place Stands David ...... 23 Diana Gail Shew ...... 24 My Sons ...... 25 A Sonnet to My Very Own Granddaughter ...... 26 The Angel on Skis ...... 27 Meditation ...... 28 Rags ...... 29 The Love of Little Children ...... 29 Dear Kids ...... 30 My Old Porch ...... 31 My Dream Home ...... 32 Home Sweet Home ...... 33 Prayer for Sharron ...... 34 Us Mothers ...... 34 When God Created Mothers ...... 35
Grandma’s Hour ...... 36 Juanita and Ruth ...... 36 Charles ...... 37 Happy Birthday to Flora ...... 38 A Sonnet to My Very First Expected Grandchild George Weatherall Stephenson —— born June 8, 1936 ...... 38 Grandma’s Baby Boy ...... 39 The Baby ...... 40 Life for a Teenager ...... 41 A Dream Come True ...... 41 A Tribute to Elizabeth ...... 42 Money, Gifts From Your Children ...... 42 Dear Eleanor and Bruce ...... 43 Untitled Poem to a Child ...... 43 Reminiscence ...... 44 Hank and Dot ...... 45 Baby Sue Ellen...... 46 Two Kids ...... 47 Five Loves ...... 48 Sharron Elizabeth Stewart, ...... 49 Dear Bruce ...... 50 My Pal ...... 51 Donald Gene Overturf ...... 52 Louella Ann ...... 53 Untitled Poem On A Daughter's Graduation ...... 54 Mother's Day, May 3, 1955 ...... 54 Sunday Night...... 55 Untitled Poem for Sharron ...... 56 Thanksgiving, 1955 ...... 57 My Little Girl ...... 57 Don ...... 58 June 6, 1951, Sunday Six A.M...... 58
Poems About Love and Life ...... 59
45 Years Ago Today ...... 60 Adventuring ...... 60 Meditations ...... 61 Autumn ...... 61 Incomplete Poem ...... 62 My Valentine ...... 63 The Little Children Need Real Dads ...... 64 Twenty-eight Years of Married Life ...... 65 If I Could Be a Husband ...... 66 My Husband ...... 67 My Trusty Old Cane ...... 68 When You Are Blue ...... 68 Untitled Halloween Poem...... 69 The Tale of a Rat ...... 69 It's April ...... 70 April (two) ...... 70 It's April With a "Spring-A-Ling" ...... 70 May Time ...... 71
Poems About Neighbors and Friends ...... 72 These Are My Neighbors ...... 73 Lovely Roses ...... 74 April 12, 1955...... 74 The House Next Door ...... 75 Rosemary's Cat Butch ...... 76 Dish Rags ...... 77
Poems About Living in Christ ...... 78 Why Do I Go To Church ...... 79 God's Goodness ...... 79 As Jesus Taught Us ...... 80 God's Love ...... 80 Church Goers ...... 81 The Load Was Heavy ...... 82
Our Missionary Group ...... 83 "Thou Shalt Not Kill" ...... 84 Shadows ...... 84 A Prayer ...... 85 Dear Philathea Class ...... 86 The Rebecca Mission Circle ...... 87 God's Snow Blanket ...... 88 Sweeter As The Days Go By ...... 88 Paul ...... 89 Dear Heavenly Father ...... 89 Easter Day ...... 90 The Resurrection ...... 91
Poems About Christmas ...... 92 That First Christmas ...... 93 A Prayer ...... 94 A Prayer ...... 94 Christmas ...... 95
PREFACE This project began with the finding of two homemade booklets of Carrie Badgett‟s poems among the effects of her daughter, Catherine Isabel Stephenson. I would like to give particular thanks to Carrie‟s daughter Eleanor Dalton for sending me her collection of poems and Carrie‟s granddaughter Sharron Johnson for sending her collection. I want to give thanks to all the members of the family for sharing memories in the Round Robin and sending poems which gave me the opportunity to come to know and love Carrie Badgett. In a few places, I had to supply a title, and for one poem, I had to supply a couple lines to complete it. It is wonderful to know that such a saint as Carrie Badgett is in Heaven praying for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as their spouses. As I work on this, I know that Carrie loves me and prays for me to become all that God made possible in me. I hope all who get copies of this will renew their loving memories of Carrie, or, if they are in-laws, like me, they will come to know and love her now and feel her love in their lives.
Joe Naumann
Husband of Mary Jane Stephenson Naumann, the daughter of Catherine Isabell Badgett Stephenson and granddaughter of Carrie Badgett.
April, 1995
Reedited and polished April, 2011
Strictly Fictitious —- by Grandma B. The Story of Two Baby Girls
This is the story of two little girls With buttons and bows and hair in a curl: Each of them came to the hospital room Riding a large, gaily colored balloon. Both started together, those two little maids, But one flew past while the other one stayed. Her Mommy and Dad were waiting for her, For she was to be their own little girl. She knew them at once by the gleam in their eyes, She waved to them happily and sang out "Surprise" My very own Daddy, my very own Mom I„ve come to go with you straight to our home, To be your very own daughter! My name„s Sharman Lee My surname is Badgett, to that let's agree But away in the distance above the bright moon, I left my very dear cousin astride her balloon. She was sailing right into a bright silver star It was really the one they call the planet Mars. But I had to leave her and come down to earth For this was the month and date of my birth -- May 25, 1953. My cousin is now on her way to the room, I'm sure she will land in the hospital soon And there will be waiting, her Mom and her Dad Then they will go home to their three little lads. She whispered her name, and I know it is true That she will be called by the name Linda Lou. Eubanks will be added, not Badgett, not her For they really wanted a wee baby girl - June 5, 1953
This note appeared at the bottom of the original poem sent to Bus and Ruth: “My hand is extremely nervous this morning, but I give you credit as a good interpreter. Sometimes I think I‟ll quit trying to write, but that is my hobby and I love it, yet I hate to persecute people by thinking they can read my scribbling.”
Notation from Aunt Eleanor:
Thanks to Joe Naumann, this book of poetry is ours to read and share. It reveals Carrie‟s personality, her great love for humanity, and her love for God and family. Bless you Joe and thank you. We are fortunate to have you as a member of our family.
Notation from Joe:
It has truly been a blessing being part of this fantastic family.
POEMS ABOUT HOME AND FAMILY
The Badgett home in Mount Vernon, Illinois
OFF TO COLLEGE
Yes, my son has gone to college, And my heart has gone there, too. He has gone to gain more knowledge, My heart has gone to see him through.
TRANSFORMATION
My little girl has gone from me, Who used to climb upon my knee. And beg for tales of giants bold, And fairy elves and streets of gold.
Her hands that used to hold to mine Like some small wild and clinging vine, Has lost their grip and gone away. And yet I cannot say to her “nay.”
For in her place a maiden stands, Grasping her lover by the hand. A deep, sweet blush upon her face. Her giant bold has taken my place.
And some day, he will carry her Away to castles built with pearls Of love upon a velvet throne. With fairy elfs to make her home.
My dear, I hope your dreams come true. That love will always follow you. And please dear God, may he be brave Yet gentle as her gallant knave.
Please make those fairy tales come true. And may they always find that You Will be their friend, to hold their hands and guide them through enchanted lands.
Do keep her sweet and pure and strong. As lovely as a lovely song, And make her grow in strength and grace, As she fulfills her woman‟s place.
JUST ONE SENTENCE
When you turned and said as you left tonight —— “You‟re pretty good after all ———” This topsy-turvy day turned out all right My world didn‟t seem so small. I really believe those words you spoke Were not in jest or glee, For the old spirit in me that was almost broke, Was mended in ecstasy!
MY PRAYER FOR MY CHILDREN
Gracious Father, who hath given to me the gift of life, Hear me. I beseech Thee in behalf of my children. Thy gift they were to me after months of hushed expectancy. After weeks of brooding tenderness, after hours of pain and turmoil Bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh, they rested in my arms, their heads pillowed against my breasts. I fashioned soft garments for them in which they might be warmly clad. I hushed their fretful wail; I watched over them with loving care. When the curtain of night was drawn and day was fled I taught them to lisp their evening prayers. I sought also to instruct them well, and lead them in right paths. I saw them grow in suppleness and strength from babyhood to young manhood and womanhood. And now as each one goes from my side to take his or her place in the world Go Thou with them O God, in the hour of temptation When the tides of blood rum hot, give them the spirit of mastery I ask not that they shall gain fame but that they shall be strong. Not that they shall have the praise of the throng but the approval of the still, small Voice within And Thy words, Well Done "O Christ” Let their heads be bowed before Thee, in reverence and submission, but lifted high to meet life‟s challenge And bring them home to me with minds of men And women but with the hearts of little children, Amen.
SING
My little girl her age just three Eyes shining like the dew of Spring Would often climb upon my knee And say, "Sing Mamma sing."
Her little boy the other day Was sailing high up in a swing When suddenly he stopped his play And said, "Sing Grandma, sing."
DREAMING OF HOME TONIGHT winter of 1945
I shut my eyes just for a spell And there it is, a wishing well! I look and wish. My wish comes true I‟m standing now at home with you, I‟m searching deep within your eyes To see if I‟m a glad surprise. Do you love me like I love you. Oh! there you are my Skipper boy To you I shout a glad ahoy! I see your smile just half a grin Mischievous eye, a dimpled chin. There`s Eleanor and Ira too My heart sings out as I see you. I look outside and there‟s your car And then I say Oh! there you are We‟l1 have French fries and T-bone steaks I‟m wondering if I‟m wide a wake Or only dreaming as I see Susie wagging her tail at me. There‟s Buster Just come in from school Woody should he there, for as a rule, He usually is. And there stands Hank With Dorothy. Oh please be frank And tell me do you want me still Though full of faults and other ills. How nice the house looks, Dorothy dear. And for the yard I give three cheers. Just let me hug you all real close Oh wishing well, You‟re just a ghost.
BABY BRUCE Dec. 19, 1946
You‟ve been with us a month today We‟re looking for your smile But it will come your baby way So we‟ll just wait awhile
We‟re watching dear for your first goo You‟re eyes light up so bright We chuckle you and say Boo Boo! Then hug you up real tight.
Because you see my baby Bruce We all just love you so We‟ll soon be giving you orange juice Which helps to make you grow.
You‟ve got ten fingers and ten toes! You ears are like sea shells. You have a darling little nose That‟s there for you to smell.
Your hair is dark we think it curls We‟re glad you came a boy Of course we love the little girls But you are such a joy.
To both your Mamma and your Dad We welcome you my dear. You‟re such a wee bit of a lad We hope you like us here.
MY SON, HOMER H. BADGETT
The morning he left, I knew I must not cry If he was to be a good soldier then so must I So I cooked his breakfast and set his plate And then returned thanks before we ate. We talked about his dog; she waged her tail And about the journey he would take by rail. Take good care of my boy while you‟re away I said “He knew I meant him, for he smiled then turned his head For me to kiss him on the neck, my favorite spot I grasped him by the hand and we walked out Onto the porch; his dad was waiting for him in the car Then he was gone; and into my window I hung a service star.
A DOZEN OF RED ROSES January 30, 1947
Tonight I went to Gertie‟s to help her celebrate. The occasion was our birthdays and so we made a date That she should serve the dinner with chicken all in style And I should come and eat it and tarry for a while. We gathered at her table and grace had just been said When we were both presented with a dozen roses red. They reminded me of someone with memories sweet. And so dear, Jimmie Francis, I give my thanks to you , For the dozen of red roses all sprinkled down with dew They made our birthdays perfect, your mother will agree That nothing could be nicer than the gift you gave to me.
ELEANOR IS OUT
She is so very young, Dear Lord Please keep her in thy sight And hold her lightly by the hand And teach her things that‟s right
If she is tempted to do wrong, Help her to victory In overcoming temptation, “These things I ask of thee."
So very much we love her, God In all her virginity God, keep her sweet and pure and true We‟ll give the praise to thee.
Now in Thy care we leave her, Lord Oh! Keep her safe from harm With all thy loving tenderness Encircled in Thy arms.
MY ELEANOR IS OUT IN THE NIGHT
Two A.M. and I cannot sleep. Softly to the window I creep Gaze at the skies and wonder where My little girl is, so then my prayer Is for her safety, and once again I go back to bed with the lights all dim . I try to sleep but instead I hear The clock on the mantel striking clear. The half hour stroke, and my ear is strained For the sound of a motor out in the rain.
Three A.M. Did I hear the slam of the door? I walk to the window, look out once more Into the night and at the rain To disappointment, Oh! the pain Of not knowing where in all the world I could find her. “God take care of my girl!”
Three thirty A.M., I raise the blind Thanks, Dear God, for being kind. Coming down longer, I see the light Like a beacon becoming in the night The music is sweet as the motor hums Telling me my little girl has come home.
DEAR ELEANOR
I haven‟t any gift to offer you my dear I haven‟t any money to fill your life with cheer My love for you grows daily, you‟re always on my heart. Just 16 years ago today, in my life you became a part. And for your 16th birthday, my wish for you is this That God will be your guide and fill your life with bliss My dear, will you take him by the hand, no matter where you are'? For in your darkest places, he‟ll be your guiding star.
Momma
A MOTHER’S DREAM FOR HER DAUGHTER ELEANOR
You say the homes you enter, are beautiful my dear, I‟m very sorry, Eleanor, that you can‟t bring them here And entertain the boys and girls of your society With lively games and lovely eats and lemon in the tea.
Our home is very humble, our dollars very few Of course you know how much I long to do these things for you, And own a lovely house my dear and wear a blue silk gown Then throw my doors wide open to the boys and girls in town.
I‟ve tried to make you happy, even though our house is small I‟ve sacrificed the best I could, and gave to you my all I‟d like to do much better, and I often sit and grieve Then ask the Heavenly Father to supply you with your needs.
Just to make you see life different and mold you His own way. We know that God‟s the potter, while you‟re a bunch of clay, If you will only trust him, Dearie, place yourself in His dear arms, He will mold your life so perfect, shield your soul from every harm.
Make your character so lovely, everyone will pause to see The very charming lady with the personality Then when life‟s journey‟s ended, and God builds a home for you, Then your mansion will be perfect, your dreams will all come true.
LA RIE Six years: March 5, 1947, left March 8, 1953
They lingered with her the whole of the day Trying to banish their fears away The sun went down and hid behind the cloud Then when it smiled again La Rie had gone to God.
SKIPPER IS GONE, IN HIS PLACE STANDS DAVID May, 1958
Fourteen in August did you say? Why it was only yesterday He came. A tiny baby lad Our hearts rejoiced and we were glad. You see, we loved his baby ways And entered into all his plays.
The years went by and he was six And he was full of boyish tricks A real, real boy; no sissy stuff Or not a bully or a bluff And so we watched him while he grew. Next thing, he was a boy in school.
He joined the church at ten years old The seed of righteousness to sow. On Sundays you will find him there With Andy Reed; A lovely pair Of teenagers: The youth for Christ. The kind that stands for all that‟s right.
His grammar school will end today. He graduates from his eighth grade. Our boy is gone, here stands a man. We‟ve done for him all that we can. He enters high school‟s hall of fame Skipper? No, David is his name!
DIANA GAIL SHEW October 25, 1947
A little girl four lives here in1this place Where l‟ve been visiting a week. She has such a winsome, beautiful face With red roses upon each cheek Her eyes are the color of lovely blue bells With long curling lashes so sweet Her ears are the shape of tiny sea shells With a nose you would just love to tweak Her hair is a halo of sheer shining brown So lovely all brushed and in curls She‟s the tops with her folks and the talk of the town She‟s one of the cutest of girls.
This little girl‟s name is Diana Gail Shew And a secret was told by her mother In just a few weeks and I know it is true She is getting a tiny new brother Or maybe a sister if brother‟s are out, To be dressed in lovely new clothes She‟ll just be so tickled, I‟m sure she will shout And tell everyone that she knows. I‟ll bet you a dime when Santa Claus comes If she lets him know that it‟s here He‟ll bring her a doll or bring him a drum And he‟l1 say to her “thank you, my dear"
MY SONS
I watch the boys and ponder How it ever came about It makes me often wonder Why they ever were on outs.
It was the other summer That I‟d gaze across the street My ear would catch a mumble And a hurrying of feet.
As if someone intruded And my Charles would hurry back And say I‟m not included In the races on their track.
He‟d find his old pal Bundy They would have a friendly chat Go buy themselves a sundae Then I‟d see them coming back
With smiles upon their faces And their hate for Robert grew Never should he go their paces Ever know their plans in view
Now we find them all together Pals that stick as old pals should Going in all kinds of weather Growing up to fine manhood.
Each will find his own vocation As the years go one by one Really they are no relation Yet I love to say "My sons.”
This poem is dedicated to my own son Charles, and David Bundy and Robert Russel.
Mom always referred to Sharron as “My very own granddaughter? When Mom died, Sharron came with a nosegay of violets with a ribbon that said, “Your very own granddaughter." I removed the artificial nosegay of violets (Mom‟s favorite flower) from Mom‟s hand and placed Sharron„s flowers in her hand. Eleanor
A SONNET TO MY VERY OWN GRANDDAUGHTER
You‟re my very own grandmother you said that day When you started out on your way to play I grabbed you and kissed you and said, "You bet!” Which makes you my very own granddaughter pet! I‟ve watched you grow as years went by First my tiny lass, then my small fry Your long golden tresses that hung to your waist And the brightness of beauty that shone in your face You were just a little girl, I think about ten You decided on Jesus as your personal friend The grandest step you ever will make The grandest friend who will never forsake You at any time through troubles deep For now you are counted as one of His sheep Oh! Sharron, dear, I could reminisce The things you did when a tiny miss You grandpa Badgett and the ironing board The cute little dresses that you wore And now you‟ve reached your womanhood Graceful and charming and very good When you start to college, my heart will start too You to gain more knowledge, my heart to see you through And when you reach the peak of your career May our knight ride along upon a golden steed And carry you away to a mansion of your own Its every woman‟s right to have a husband and her home And children who in dividends will pay For the training of a Christian home when you reach your old age I‟l1 leave you now, dear Sharron, my very own grandchild My love for you and prayers for you shall stretch across the miles
During the winter I stayed with the Stewarts, 1950-51, Sharron had to have a poem that contained the whole story of her reading lesson. So naturally, she turned to Grandma for help.
THE ANGEL ON SKIS
Six days had gone by since Jim left home And mummie and Bobby were all alone The food was scarce and the snow was deep The hills were icy and very steep And mummie had saved the food for her child As she bravely looked at him and smiled.
The father had gone on a business trip And no one knew that he was sick Alone in a cabin until one day A man on skis was passing that way When he heard a moan and then a sigh He opened the door and stepped inside.
It was Christmas Eve and the lights were dim In the cabin that mummie and Bobby lived in Everything was quiet and still as a mouse When a knock on the door sent a thrill through the house He thought it was Daddy and shouted for joy The angel on skis gently lifted the boy.
"Merry Christmas!" he said, as he pulled in a sled Filled with goodies, like chicken and white loaves of bread, And butter and everything so good to eat With candy and oranges as an extra treat And on Christmas morning he found a top And pretty tin soldiers all stuffed in his sox.
Then the very next morning, this angel on skis Took Bobby and mummie a whirl through the breeze They were wrapped in warm blankets and sat on the sled When Bobbie turned to his mummie and said I hope we‟ll find Daddy all well. And then, He was up in his Daddy‟s arms again.
MEDITATION
My little girls went home today Tonight I miss them at their play And wish they hadn‟t gone so soon. A week was oh! so very short So very soon to have to part There‟s a stillness in my rooms.
Sharron and Nancy are their names Cousins by birth; but to be plain Their grandma is the same you see! I‟ve been so proud to have them here They‟ve been so precious and so dear And I know that they love me!
Bridget and Sopha were my maids A make belief game that we played When they would straighten up the rooms. They seemed to have the most of fun, While grandma kept them on the run With dust mop and the broom.
I know you all got home all right I‟m sure by now you‟ve said good night And snuggled down, each in your bed. Nancy and Sharron, the two of you The things now that I‟d like to do Is to see that your book is read.
Then draw the shades so softly down Close my eyes, and without a sound Ask God to keep you through the night Then gently creep to my own bed And with two pillows for my head Just sleep till morning light.
I‟ll just say good night, my dears It was so nice to have you here So please come back some day We‟ll eat hot dogs and drink some pop And do the flip and do the flop But make a longer stay.
RAGS
When I received your letter today My sympathy went right out your way For she was such a loyal friend And loved her family till the end. There‟s a vacancy in your heart, I know For I cried too that she had to go Even though blind, she knew your touch And I know you loved her very much She was your dog and her name was Rags And she lived to be a ripe old age Her name will be blazed in memory For the hear of her was all loyalty.
THE LOVE OF LITTLE CHILDREN
As I look out of my window and watch the leaves drill down Of gold and red and speckled but most of them are brown The trees will soon be leafless; the robins will go away A sadness comes within my heart, the air is chilled today, So I‟ll just tum my chair around and sit and reminisce. Here comes my precious little girl to offer me a kiss. "Hello, Grandma,” she says to me with her sweet impish smile. “Please read about Dear Doctor Goat," I‟m laughing all the while. Dear God, please hold her in your arms and keep her ever gay. A little child can mean so much to grandmas old and gray.
DEAR KIDS
It‟s been ages since I tried to write A poem, and so, I thought tonight Since Dad and Dot are both in bed, And all the papers have been read, I‟d scribble just a line or two And tell some thoughts I have of you. About this trip you took tonight, I‟m wondering now if you‟re all right. “Charles, are you having lots of fun, Or do you look all sour and glum Because you couldn‟t go alone Tonight and take Juanita home?” I‟m sure dear Charles it‟s up to you To make a jolly crowd or blue. And Betsy too, I hope you‟re kind By leaving all your eggs behind. The little thoughtless words that sting I trust you‟ll laugh and joke and sing. I‟d love to know this very minute You‟re out for fun and all that‟s in it, And every one in harmony, Buster as nutty as can be Eleanor and David yelling like mad Although you‟d never call them bad. And when you all come home tonight And find me sleeping snug and tight Remember that before I slept, Across the room I softly crept And read a portion of God‟s word Asking His blessings for my herd Of children that are out tonight. Keep them sweet and guide them right. Make them in each other see The good and not the bad, for we All have our faults, and so kids dear, Good night, God bless you, and good cheer.
MY OLD PORCH
It‟s old and tottery like me. But yes I still sit there and see Good people always passing by. And listen to the children‟s cry At play, as they go hide and seek. The newsboy‟s coming down the street. The mailman‟s coming down my way. Is there any mail for me today?
I even sit and count the cars. And when dusk comes I watch the stars. The moon is rising o‟er the hill. Here comes Skipper with my pill. The pill is for this heart of mine, That sometimes gets out of line, Dear old Porch I love you so. It‟s hard to sit and let you go.
The steps are crumbling away, And I‟ll be going too, some day. Last night when all the household slept, To this old porch I softly crept, And talked to God. I found Him there, And so to Him I said my prayer From off my heart He lifted a load of care. Life‟s bounty or woes He helps me bear,
I talked to Him for quite a while, And then I quickly turned and smiled. A sweet peace came within my soul, And I no longer felt so old. And now I‟l1 sit and nod and doze, Oh, dear! I‟ll have to blow my nose, And wipe my glasses wet with tears. Dear Porch, we‟1l go on through the years.
This is why I want to make two apartments in my home. The one for Dotty and the one for me, so each of us can be happy to do as we see fit to do in our own homes and yet be together as long as Dorothy wants it that way. I‟ll always want Dot, Hank and her babies there until they can better themselves, then I wouldn‟t be the one to stand in their way. February 19, 1947
MY DREAM HOME
I wish you all could understand About my little bit of land That what I want is a home of my own Some secret spot to cry alone. With maybe just a tomato patch Some friendly face to lift the latch That will hang on the outside of my door Or a child to romp across my floor. I want a home with friendly rafters And let ring with wholesome laughters. Iris blooming for their delight Clean windows with gay curtains bright With never too big a bill to pay To cause you sorrow in any way. I want to be gracious and kind and sweet That to come to my house will be a treat. With now and then, spite of any rule I‟d like a chance to be a fool With an hour to dream and an hour to pray With thoughts of him who has gone away. My house should have a little nook Off in the corner for Buster‟s books A little room to call his own And make him feel, “so welcome,” home For such a home I‟ve planned and planned A porch screened in for baby hands To play around without a thought Of getting germs from flies and moths. I‟d want my yard to be a place For children‟s feet to run and race And when at last the shadows fall My prayer would be, God Bless You all.
HOME SWEET HOME
Oh I love these old rooms and crumbled down walls To me they‟re not old or crumbled at all But lovely and stately; they say things to me Of yesterday‟s children that climbed an old tree Why this house is chock-full of memories dear. I can see my own mamma from where I sit here. And my papa so dear whose posies he loved They had all the hues of a rainbow above. I picture the weddings took place in this room Of Genie and Gene as the first bride and groom. Then Florence and Arthur, then Oscar and me. And Dorothy and Henry who didn‟t agree! Next came the births of the babies so dear Just one went to Heaven, the rest are all here Hospitals were things in the distance to come We rocked our own babies and thought it such fun Two Catherine‟s, one mine and one Gertie‟s, you see The children I spoke of that climbed an old tree And not only them, but Elizabeth and Charles, Then Eleanor! Then Buster, who went to the war. And my thoughts wonder back to two babies so dear Donald is gone, but Dorothy‟s still here They were twins and we loved them, but one couldn`t stay The Lord wanted him and took him away. That was one generation, but another one came. Skipper and Donnie, we call them by name Sons of my Dorothy, and now do you see These are the boys that still climb the old tree. But of course they were born in the hospital zone Yet this was the place that to them was called home And they too are those that were raised at my knee And that is the story of the old walnut tree. So that‟s why to me the old house is as dear The memories, the sweetness, the sorrows, the tears. To me it is like an old open book Chock-full of excitement from corner to nook. An I‟ll go on loving it until I am called To my mansion above where there‟s no crumbled walls.
PRAYER FOR SHARRON
Please help me Dear God to feel better tonight Please give me the strength to sit down and write To my Very Own granddaughter and help me to smile Big, broad and loving, the kind that‟s worthwhile. I‟ve read and reread your valentine sweet From my Very Own Sharron that just can‟t be beat. Dear Sharron, as you finish reading these lines, Remember you‟re always my valentine.
US MOTHERS
I would compare my life to a deep red rose Where thorns and thistles and green leaves grow The red is the life blood I gave unto you As under my heart you blossomed and grew And then you came forth just a bud on the earth I‟m referring, my dear, to the day of your birth. We‟ve battled the thorns and the thistles my dear All through your life right down through the years But the green leaves that covered each thistle and thorn Represent your sweet life from the day you were born And now, you‟re a mother, just the same as I Just a few years back you were still my “smal1 fry” And so I salute you on this Mothers Day As one of the best. But please let me say To both Sharron and Sue, that your mother, it‟s true Is God`s gift from heaven, sent right down to you.
To my daughter on Mother‟s day June 1946 Dedicated to all true mothers everywhere
WHEN GOD CREATED MOTHERS
When God created mothers, He must have had in view Certain kind of mothers that represent just you. Today, I pay you tribute and give to you my hand As being very gracious and lovable and grand.
When God created mothers, He must have understood How little children needed to have them kind and good The kind that take the trouble to understand their whims When they are tiny people and life has just begun.
When God created mothers, He wanted something fine You surely must have been like those he really had in mind. And so to you I give a rose with many thorns, but sweet Thorns represent the heartaches, the rose, the children‟s feet,
When God created mothers, He knew the time would come When raising little children wouldn‟t always be like fun. He would have to keep them busy watching them with tender care They would have to be a comfort in crisis sometimes rare.
When God created mothers, He held His standards high. He wanted the kind of mother that could soothe a baby‟s cry. He wanted the kind of mother that would go through all the years In keeping faith and loyalty with confidence and tears.
He wanted praying mothers, so again, I say to you, That you‟re the kind of mother I‟m just sure he had in view So in honor of all mothers, I salute to you my dear, And wish you joy and happiness throughout the coming years.
GRANDMA’S HOUR
Dot put her children all in bed I listened while their prayers were said Then read to them from a story book Until they could no longer look, Their eyes went shut, all went to sleep, They did not hear me softly creep Away from them; “It is grandma‟s hour" And on my table sits a flower The clock is ticking the time away Tomorrow will be another day, There‟s Dave and Don and Danny too The dear little girl we call Linda Lou. Dorothy and Curtis and all the cats four The children‟s pet turtle just adds up one more This is my household; and now I‟m alone I love this arrangement, for this is my home.
JUANITA AND RUTH
Juanita, you‟re very precious and so is my Ruth girl too My God‟s very richest of blessings be showered on both of you, I‟m sure He saw in the distance that you were the very ones That would make the nicest mothers for the children of my two sons. If they hunted the wide world over, they couldn‟t have pleased me more Than the day you became my daughters, and I thank God o‟re and o‟re. For the blessings you both have given me by being so good to me I thank you, dear hearts, for I love you. For this l do believe.
CHARLES
Twenty-one today? Oh me! Just seems like yesterday that we Were looking forward to the day A little boy should come our way. You came, and once more looking back, I see you walking up the track. Going to school, a little lad With book and pencils and paper pad.
Again, I see your steady gait A big boy, eighth grade graduate. We knew our boy was the stuff That makes the man, and sure enough You‟ve made us mighty proud of you. We find you noble, good and true To God, and us, and fellow man Going forward as best you can.
A senior in S.I.N.U. We find you now, we know it‟s true Through poverty and loads of tears You‟ve kept on going through the years. So now you‟ve reached to twenty-one. Dear Charles, your work has just begun. We wish you all your dreams come true Of Juanita, and all she means to you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO FLORA
Greetings, my Dear, from us to you Upon your natal day May blessings that are fond and true Along you pathway lay We haven‟t any cards to send All lithographed in gold With butterflies and pretty wrens And verses new and old Or any presents fine and grand With wishes that are new But may God take you by the hand And guide you safely through Life‟s journey, all along the years And keep you sweet and good And lovely, and may you, my Dear, Be a gift to womanhood Another candle for your cake To shine out broad and wide Away across the crystal lake Across the great divide Till its bright ray reaches Heaven The angels sing a hymn Because one on earth has given Her light to shine for Him.
A SONNET TO MY VERY FIRST EXPECTED GRANDCHILD GEORGE WEATHERALL STEPHENSON —— BORN JUNE 8, 1936
Bring my cap and specks here too My knitting and my patching In June I‟ll high hat all of you And do a little packing
I soon will be a grandma! Hand me my alpaca gown Oscar, you‟l1 be a grandpa Oh waltz me around and around.
I‟m going out for pleasure To a city that is big St. Louis will hold my treasure My baby! Oh! Jig! a jig! Jig!
I was in St. Louis when George was born at Christian Hospital, June 8, 1936.
GRANDMA’S BABY BOY
Little boy asleep tonight In a nursery room. Grandma‟s going to hug you tight Next Thursday afternoon Plant a kiss upon your cheek Watch you all the while As you gently go to sleep Grandma‟s little child.
You are such a tiny mite Helpless, loving, sweet Wonder where you are tonight Dreaming as you sleep Are you in a fairies‟ dell Playing with the elves Maybe angels round you dwell Guarding your good health.
Little boy, they call you George Wonder if you know That some day you‟l1 be as large As Daddy when you grow We were watching for you dear Your entrance gave us joy We‟re so very glad you‟re here Grandma‟s baby boy.
Catherine (Ciba) and George Junior.
A tribute to George and his mother and dad ——— also to Bruce and his mother and dad and Dorothy and her two little boys David and Donald and Hank —— also this same poem is dedicated to Elizabeth and Oliver, Sharron and Sue; Juanita and Charles and Yvonne and La Rie and Miss Ciba and George, Nancy, Mary Jane, and Cathy. This poem was originally written at the time my first grandson George was born and was in honor of Catherine and George, but now I pass it on to you. La Rie has lived her life and departed on March 8, 1947, at the age of 6 years and 3 days.
THE BABY
Isn‟t it wonderful and true The blessings a baby brings to you And how we love them from the start All tucked right under a mother‟s heart A little seed was planted there And then was nourished with tender care With mother‟s blood and father‟s too As God was molding it for you.
A lovely flower so sweet and dear With the smallest pair of pink shell ears Eyes that open so big and wide As he looks at you with mild surprise Spreads his mouth with a big broad grin At the lovely mother God gave to him Your fingers twine in his hair with joy As your hearts rejoice that he‟s "your boy”
We trust you‟re fine and baby too Here‟s Congratulations from us to you And may God spare you both to live To see your boy grow strong and big And stand for everything that‟s good To crown your lives with parenthood And as the years go one by one May your guiding star be in your son.
LIFE FOR A TEENAGER (written for Eleanor)
Life‟s conflicting it seems to me — So many things I want you see. Beautiful figures, pretty face, Some pretty things all trimmed in lace. Sheerest hose and shoes galore With lovely dresses from the store.
All kinds of gloves and pocket books Jaunty hats to help my looks, Swimming suits (the latest type) Some shorts and skirts to take a hike. Let manicurists fix my nails Let me be baffling to the males.
I‟d love to own a limousine With upholstering done in green, Or with my airplane fly up high And beat all records in the sky, But here I‟ll sit and pine away Studying books from day to day.
A DREAM COME TRUE
I‟m going to be a grandmother, I used to say When I was a youngster, and people would say What are you going to be when you grow up? A teacher'? A leader? And all that stuff I‟ll be a nice grandmother with a cookie jar And I‟ll hand out my cookies with a candy bar. I‟ll smile at the kiddies and ask them to stay I‟ll have my yard fixed up with a place to play There are the thirteen grand children up to date There‟ll be others coming before too late. They stand for the dream that really came tme A dream that was realized all through you.
My grandchildren that are living: Catherine Isabel‟s children -— George, Nancy, Mary Jane, and Catherine Elizabeth‟s children —- Susan and Sharron Charles‟ child —— Yvonne Eleanor‟s child —— Bruce Dorothy‟s Children —— Elaine, Curtis Lee, David, Donald, and Dannie La Rie and Luella Ann are safe in the arms of Jesus.
A TRIBUTE TO ELIZABETH
Twenty years ago today, a little girl was born Lovely, pure and wholesome on a cold November morn The day before Thanksgiving, God gave this babe to us He saw far in the distance as He left her in our trust. To us, she‟s been a blessing when trouble tore our hearts She‟s never failed and never will, she more than does her part By sacrificing down the years to see her family through, There has been no disappointment in the things that she can do. Her life may not be brilliant, no laurels o‟re her head For all the world to sing her praise, but a crown of life instead Will be waiting up in heaven when God reigns upon his throne And the golden deeds are counted and our sins are all atoned.
There‟s a mother loves this daughter, wishes her a birthday bright Filled with sweetness and contentment and a long and useful life. And a husband and some children as comfort for old age. A home so filled with happiness that all the world will praise. The loveliness of her who dwells within its walls so fine Elizabeth, sweet of the sweets, a blessing to mankind.
MONEY, GIFTS FROM YOUR CHILDREN
Money comes and money goes Which surely helps to ease my woes I say thanks here and say thanks there And buy myself a luscious pear. If it weren‟t for you children sweet I‟d never buy myself a treat And while my pocket book I search To put a dollar in my church, I say Dear Lord, just thank those kids And know that this is what they did From out the goodness of hearts They load me down with apple tarts.
Apple tarts I use as a parable meaning sweet, crisp and lovely. Crisp for dollar bills and bank checks. Sweet and lovely, meaning the spirit in which they give it for me to buy happiness with.
DEAR ELEANOR AND BRUCE (When you moved to Johnstown)
I hated to leave you both today Knowing you‟re going so far away, But really I do want you to know How much I love you before you go. I love you so much, Oh my! My Dears, Please forgive me if I shed some tears. Now when you are at your journey‟s end, Remember to be real sure to send A message; telling me you‟re okay We arrived safely at __ today. (telling the hour) Tell me about your trip on the train. Did Bruce have any stomach pains? Also, I want to thank you, my dears For the nice things you did while I was here. I wish you happiness and good luck too In all things you undertake to do. When you see Ira, tell him, "Hello.” Well, really, I should prepare to go. I‟m leaving now, be good, both of you I leave you with God to see you through.
UNTITLED POEM TO A CHILD
Your flowers were such a grand surprise A bit of heaven from the skies. Like pink clouds mingled with the blue Telling my heart that I love you. Mountains of snow stacked up so high With white snap dragons riding by Green things just springing from the earth Teaching my soul of an endless birth. Also, my dears, your card was grand A card that was made by an artist‟s hand. I love it and shall cherish it oh so long A memory sweet, when the flowers are gone.
REMINISCENCE
It doesn‟t seem so long ago Since first you came to me. I dressed you up in frills and bows And laces daintily.
You were so sweet and winsome, dear Just made the old house ring With happiness and love and cheer And blessings. And did sing
Sweet lullabies, "The Rag Man” song. Just peeping through the vines; I‟d tell you stories short and long Croon you nursery rhymes.
You had a party with a cake The day that you were three, A fish pond that the tots thought great And how you laughed with glee
At candles all lit up so bright You counted one, two, three. Then watched them all burn out of sight And shouted merrily.
Your birthday now has come once more I look all down the years And find you have passed a score Of candles added dear.
Your life has meant so much to me You‟ve always been so good And lovely in your purity Now grown to womanhood
Best wishes from both Mom and Dad And all the family May your life be always glad And full of harmony.
This poem is dedicated to Catherine Isabel (Ciba). It was first written on October 12, 1932, your 23rd birthday.
HANK AND DOT
Like dew that falls from heaven above And makes the violets bloom So are their hearts entwined in love Around a sliver moon.
All set with stars and blue pink skies And dancing fireflies bright While fairy elves around them flies To grant their wishes bright.
And so dear God, from out the night Just grasp them by the hand That they might measure to thy height The woman and the man.
And if he leaves to go afar To fight for Uncle Sam, Just be to him a guiding star To lead him through strange lands.
And comfort her while he‟s away And keep her heart in tune A knowing he‟ll come back some day To stand beneath their moon.
BABY SUE ELLEN
Okay, my little baby And so you‟ve come to stay Your eyes are like blue violets Grandma‟s favorite nosegay.
Your hair is like the ravens As black as any night Must have caught a cloud from heaven In the hurry of your flight
Your ears like tiny sea shells, How do I know all this? Well, fairies sometimes tells They saw you through the mist.
And where you stopped to linger, You grew a tiny nose Ten tiny little lingers Ten tiny little toes.
Grandma‟s little dream girl We didn‟t want a boy Not when we look at your one curl That curl‟s your mamma‟s joy.
You‟re daddy‟s little cooing dove And sweet heart number two Sharron was his first love But now she shares with you.
Fairy‟s tell me that you‟re pretty Also that you are good Some day you‟ll be quite witty Like grandma said you would
Sunday afternoon, September 29, 1946 Skipper, age 2, and Grandma Badgett, age 61
TWO KIDS
We went car riding on the bus And we had fun, the two of us. When we got off we took a walk. It was so cute the way he talked. He started out with his cloth bear (teddy) Which soon he put into my care While he began to pick up sticks. He struck a dog! The little minx! Then we came home and found ice cream. His mom and dad were both serene At home again! They‟d been away Off to a show, and so we played.
FIVE LOVES
Her first love stood upon his head, "Hey, you! Look at me," he said. She turned and looked with impish grin Then slyly made a face at him. This miss was only seven
Her next love was a lanky youth Freckled nose and hair uncouth. He laid his tributes at her feet Apples, rings and chocolate sweets, Her age had reached eleven
Her third love came, and she was thrilled Dressed herself in lace and frills. Then on the sofa sat sedate Afraid each moment he‟d be late. Fourteen was she and pretty
The fourth love came. Oh, he was grand. Dignified, grown up young man, Alas she flirted as the dance Which was the end of their romance. Just seventeen, but witty
The fifth love came; he was her knight. Lover‟s lane, the moon was bright A kiss or two, the two were wed With fairy feet they homeward tread The night that she was twenty.
Alas, they quarreled with no regrets. Widow now, at her request Alimony doth soothe her pain, And she can really laugh again Because she won a plenty.
SHARRON ELIZABETH STEWART, Age 3 Weeks, 4 Days
There's a baby in the house; Tread as softly as a mouse: Keep your voices soft and low like a river's gentle flow.
Such a tiny little mite Sleeping in your crib tonight; Resting in your dear sweet way, Yes, we think you've come to stay.
From the very time you came, This home has never been the same. You are monarch of us all Though you are so very small.
Sharron Elizabeth is your name; You mostly drive us all insane; Loving you with tender care While you rule us unaware.
Eyes of blue and darkest hair; Dimpled chin and skin so fair. Wonder what you think of us Making such an awful fuss?
You are like a fairy queen And I'm sure you sweetly dream As you sleep because you smiled, Mother's little angel child,
DEAR BRUCE
You live there, but I live here Well! That's too many miles away Because you see, I miss you dear And love you from my very heart How fast the years go traveling by For now you've reached eleven Say! What's become of my small fry That hadn't yet reached seven? And we'd go fishing in the stream All back in your corn field And ride an engine full of steam With pissants for our meal We'd walk along the quarry road And fetch a load of rocks We stopped to watch a hopping toad We placed him in a box And oh! the paper chains we made We hung them everywhere Of gold and blue and red and jade All down the basement stairs But you have vanished into space No more to be with me A tall young lad has took your place That means so much to me.
MY PAL
Dear Dorothy, on your natal day It's time to leave your books and play Bring your friends, forget your woes Come along and away we'11 go To the park. There's plenty of space We'll make a fire and run a race.
Later As they stood around the campfire bright Roasting wieners in the night Toasting marshmallow, eating buns Playing games and having fun 'Twas great that I too could be there Their laughter and their joy to share.
Next Morning This morning, I uttered a little prayer (My Donald boy is over there) To ask, Dear God would he for me Say, Happy birthday Donald "please." And once again, I thanked him then I still had you my little friend.
For your life that means so much to me And for a loving memory Of big blue eyes, smiles, the joy The short life of my baby boy, Dear Dot, you're everything to me A double of that memory.
A lapse of almost twenty-nine years - at the time of this, Skipper is two and one half years of age.
DONALD GENE OVERTURF
A star just dropped from heaven And a little boy was born In nineteen forty-seven March the sixth on Thursday morn.
Skipper is his great big brother And his Daddy's name is Hank Dorothy is his lovely mother Donald Gene is fourth in rank.
This is true about your mother You see, my dear, she was a twin And Donald was her baby brother This is where your name comes in.
Just four months and days of seven, That was an the time he lived. Then he left to go to heaven He just wasn't very big.
We loved him all those precious days So I give his name to you We hope that you have come to stay Donald dear, I love you too.
I dedicate this poem to you, Dorothy. I tried to write your thoughts on paper as you have expressed them to me. Written by Carrie Badgett the winter she lived with Eleanor and Ira on the farm.
LOUELLA ANN
You came to me Louella Ann It makes it hard to understand Just why you couldn't stay Your little life was far too short You twined yourself around my heart And then you slipped away. Louella Ann, I loved you so It was so hard to let you go My little baby girl Your memory will linger long Oh! Dear God, please make me strong Your lovely hair! It curled. You had a dimple in each cheek You smiled into eternal sleep The angels sang a song I felt the touch of your sweet hand Before you sailed for heaven land But I couldn't go along Sleep on sweet babe Louella Ann Some day, I'm sure I'll understand Just why you didn't stay The angels caught your baby smile And you'll be happy all the while until I come some day. And I will come Louella Ann I'll come to your dear Heaven land When my work on earth is done But now I'll stay upon this earth To guide two boys so full of mirth They are my little sons. Your memory will guide me too To do the things that I must do To raise these boys up right And so Dear God, I turn to you My consolation please renew And make the dark clouds light.
UNTITLED POEM ON A DAUGHTER'S GRADUATION
Daughter of mine because of you My life has been worth living; Your life. your tears, your happiness Were mingled in that giving Because I've known your frailties Yet counted them as naught Because I've guessed your hidden best That others never sought Because when your ambition flagged I've always understood Because I've watched your every step As you grew from babyhood Because of my belief in you, As, now you graduate My every prayer, is for success In what you undertake.
MOTHER'S DAY, MAY 3, 1955
My Dear Daughter on Mother's Day I haven't any card embellished all in gold Or any pretty flowers, their fragrance to unfold. But I want to say God Bless you on this your mother's day And when the day is over and dusk is on its way, May the peace of God surround you in the shadow of the day.
SUNDAY NIGHT
Eeny, meeny, miney and moe Who shall I ask to mend my woe? Oliver, Ira, Buster or George Curtis, Charley, Oh! who will enlarge My income enough to fix my stool.
To ask for money is against my rule So I'm passing the ht and with a grin I'll take whatever you want to drop in My neighbor says it must be done But really, my dears, I haven't the fund.
But Monday, I'm going to take what I have And trust in the Lord for good or bad My neighbor declares it won't cost too much If I buy the parts, he'll fix the flush. For he's found the leak and he showed it to me.
If you all could see it, I'm sure you'd agree it's best to fix it and fix it right now Or my water bill will sure be a wow So here comes the hat, what will you put in? And thank you, and thank you, and thank you again.
UNTITLED POEM FOR SHARRON
And now your prince has rode to you With chariot and silver spurs And diamonds on your finger too While fairy castles are your world.
I wouldn't disillusion you For all the Kingdom's throne If you love your prince, "Well, I will too" Agreed? "My very own."
Keep her heart singing precious God With a merry dancing tune With bells a ringing sweet and loud Entwined in a silver moon
My little girl has gone from me A maiden kind and good Is standing here within her place In her sweet womanhood
A priceless princess, fair and proud Dear prince, be a prince to her Walk discreetly in the fear of God My Sharron, my little girl.
THANKSGIVING, 1955
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day today A feast fit for a king my son Buster would say The table was stately with leaves brown and gold The chicken in the center was elegant to behold And all around that chicken were all the trimmings too The vegetables, the dumplings, and dressing and the stew After grace was over, we began to fill our plates And every one of us just sat and ate and ate and ate And then we saw the pumpkin pie with whipped cream on the top A chocolate cake just full of nuts. Our eyes began to pop.
The chicken was a present, two friends just brought it in They asked for Mrs. Badgett, then gave it with a grin They are such lovely ladies, I wonder who they were Have they simply disappeared from us, in just thin air? Our Dot did all the cooking, to her all credit's due And so Dear Dot, it's now our turn to tip our hats to you We appreciate you honey, we know you work too hard But where you are, we will be fed, no one of us will starve I hope that every family gave thanks to God today And had as much as we did, Lord, and cheerful and as gay.
MY LITTLE GIRL (a variation of The Love of Little Children)
I look out my window and watch the leaves come drifting down; Gold and red and speckled; some are even brown. The trees will soon be leafless, the robins gone away. A sadness creeps into my heart. The air is crisp today. I'll just turn my chair around, and sit and reminisce. Here comes my precious little girl to offer me a kiss. "Hello, Grandma," she says to me, and with her sweet impish smile "Please read about, “Dear Dr. Goat" - I'm laughing all the while. "Dear God, Please hold her in your arms and keep her ever gay." A little child can mean so much to Grandma, old and gray.
DON
Donnie is a baseball fan. He wants a ball to fit his hand, A fielder's mitt, that's just this size, (Not large or sloppy or otherwise). Please, someone! Answer his call, And bring to him a glove for a ball. His age is ten with some months added His baseball glove must be well padded.
JUNE 6, 1951, SUNDAY SIX A.M.
Dear hearts and gentle people, I say fare well today Thanks for your hospitality; I must be on my way. It's been good for me to be here, and I love you everyone so thanks again, my hearties for everything you've done And if the Lord is willing, I'll be coming back to you When the frost is on the pumpkin and the summer time is through.
So may the good Lord bless you by keeping you in health And give you wisdom from above to share each other's wealth. And when the sun is shining and all the sky is blue And the birds are in the tree tops, I'll be thinking, dears of you I'll be thinking of your kindness and how you took me in And kept me warm and fed me all through the winter wind.
You know Our Father tells us, and this you'll all agree That what you do to others, you do it unto me. So when your life's work's ended, your crown you then shall win For Christ will say well done, my dear, please come and enter in. So my Dear Sue and Sharron, I want to thank you too For being sweet to grandma in everything you do.
POEMS ABOUT LOVE AND LIFE
Oscar when Ciba was an infant
45 YEARS AGO TODAY October 19, 1952
Forty-five years ago today, we took the marriage vows, And promised that we would obey and live up to our vows That death alone would party us two, and then you slipped away. I know dear heart your love was true, yet you just couldn't stay, Now I'm alone and yet I feel your presence, Oh! so near To me you seem so very real, your spirit must be here. Just keep a look out, dear, for me for I'm not very strong, The children now will all agree that they can get along. Each one's established their own home for which I feel so blessed. For even Dot is not alone, she has her family nest Of three boys to love and raise, and fill her heart with glee And someday they will sing her praises and she will think of me. Gertie and Jim were here today, they seldom ever come. And then, of course, they went away back to their same old home. But I enjoyed them very much, they brought a pie to me It gave to me a closer touch of what they used to be. But now I close my eyes and pray for God to have "His Will" And lead me gently day by day and help me to "Be Still."
ADVENTURING We went adventuring today, Along an old road trail. Sometimes we nearly lost our way, Until someone we'd hail From farms all scattered here and there, And ask which way to go. The little children all would stare, As if we were a show. We'd wave to them. And how we'd laugh, To see a sow with pigs, A mother cow and her young calf, A goat that dined on twigs.
We saw some horses, mules and sheep. Great fields of growing grain. Those singing hills were very steep. We'd sing that glad refrain Oh, me! T'was such a lively drive. We'll go again some day. All nature seemed so much alive, To cheer us on our way.
MEDITATIONS
While sitting here and waiting My brain keeps meditating In a lazy, silly sort a way At the giggling and the talking Of the boys and girls a walking Cross the corridor from day to day
A sitting here a dreaming A thinking and a scheming If my grades will really be an "A." Or if really I've been flunking How my nerves are always jumping And sometimes I'd like to run away.
My heart goes back in fancy I catch myself romancing With the boy of sparkling eyes And it keeps my soul a rumbling With a panic sort of grumbling When he's looking at me on the sly.
I find myself complaining That the other girl might claim him When I know I really do not care Yet I know that he is charming And my pulse goes on alarming At the way he looks at me and stares.
AUTUMN
The air outside is bleak and cold. This house is growing very old Yet tapping on my window pane The gentle falling of the rain Speaks peace unto my heart tonight. The fire inside is warm, and bright Lights are casting away the gloom, And Autumn is in merry tune.
INCOMPLETE POEM (the title was unreadable and the last lines were missing)
Honey - I've seen a lot of dark times, lots of trouble Tons of it, almost, since I've been traveling through But nary one I wish I'd missed, even tho' 'twere double Each seemed to knock some rough spot off, that nothing else could do.
Then I've seen days so full of sheerest gladness - Just couldn't hold it all - it seems some ways To just spill over and sweeten any sadness And make less so, the bitter of those other days.
So if some day, joy hides behind some sorrow And all life's horizon is dim with mist and tears Honey just give thanks, to know that on the morrow God will bring gladness to last you through the years.
Italicized words were added by Joe Naumann to complete the poem, he hopes, as Carrie Badgett intended.
MY VALENTINE
The children passed in boisterous glee, Skipping, laughing and so care free. Each of them carried cupid's darts In valentines gay, and candy hearts. With lovely verses all in rhyme Like "Will you be my valentine?" "Roses are red and violets are blue, My love for you is always true"
Today in school there would be a box All done in hearts with a slit on top To drop in their treasures all addressed To heart's desire they loved the best. And thus I watched them as they went. Each child upon some pleasure bent, Each one happy telling their loves With hearts and flowers, and cooing doves.
Then I came along. Mid shouts of glee, He handed that valentine out to me. "For me!" I said with mild surprise! That Valentine I highly prize. Although it came from a weak-minded boy, I know the giving gave him joy. Among my souvenirs it lays in state, All yellowed now with age.
THE LITTLE CHILDREN NEED REAL DADS
I saw a little boy today whose age was half past three Run out upon his porch in a jolly burst of glee To ask his daddy could he go with him into the town But an the answer that he got was just an ugly frown With a question as to who had put him up to such a whim My mother did he answered with a child's sort of grin No! The daddy wouldn't take him and the child began to cry And as I watched the two of them, I drew a great big sigh!
Oh! If I could have taken his place and been the youngster's Dad. (For after all, just three and a half is such a tiny lad) I'd lifted up his tear stained face and surely I would kiss him, And then I'd say, come on my son lets go into the kitchen For if you're going with your dad, I'll have to wash your face And scrub your hands and comb your hair and then we'd run a race. To tell his mother we would like a clean pair of pants Then I would put them on him and watch to see him prance.
We'd go to that old comer and we'd wait for that old bus And when it came we'd hop inside, Oh! just the two of us. And I would say to everyone who looked upon my boy Yes sir, we're pals; until my heart would surely burst with joy Now that's the kind of daddies little children need so bad And that's the kind of daddy every little child should have When God created daddies, I'm sure he had in mind Something very stable and something very kind.
TWENTY-EIGHT YEARS OF MARRIED LIFE
Today marks eight years and twenty Since we took the marriage vows We've had ups and downs a plenty From that time on up till now.
Yet, I wouldn't change thee Dearie Took the bitter with the sweet And at times the clouds looked dreary The dark shadows seemed to creep.
All around us, we stood the test Both together with a vim. Always striving to do our best Till the sun would shine again
We've always wanted things „tis true, A lovely home, a bed of flowers Our dollars have been very few To raise a family like ours.
To educate them as we should Buy their clothes and daily needs They've been so very sweet and good Filled our lives with golden deeds.
Oh! I wouldn't trade you Dearie For the largest pot of gold For my love for you grows yearly Even though we're growing old
You've been mine through all the years Always when I'm sick and blue Or troubled; or sometimes in tears Consolation comes from you
And so dear heart, when life is through You and I are old and grey When God calls you, he'll take me too We'll be together then, always.
IF I COULD BE A HUSBAND
I wish that I could sometimes be A husband for a while I'd pat my wife on the back And give to her a smile If I could not afford to buy the necessities of life I would be so very careful what I said to my dear wife I'd never scold or throw a fit Because her arm was sore And she had to give the doctor A little bit and more I'd be glad her arm was better From the bottom of my heart And I'd say you're very lovely As she'd try to do her part In laying out the money And I'd do my best to see That upon our scanty budget She had done her best for me.
After 37 years of married life, the Lord took him to Heaven, there to wait for me. Married October 19, 1907 . . . Went to Heaven, April 26, 1944
MY HUSBAND
Oscar, I'm down home tonight Your picture's on the radio A lump comes in my throat so tight Because I seem to miss you so.
You have the old familiar pipe Tobacco pouch is just the same "Dear hands" as natural as in life Your specks that's crooked in their frame
The sweater that you wore so much Showing the collar of your shirt If I could only feel your touch Perhaps I wouldn't feel so hurt.
Or lonesome or so down right blue. Our children are so lovely dear But I can't help from missing you I wish so much that you were here.
So many things have happened here
Since the day you went away ",' .. .. The war is over and oh! My dear Buster and Hank are home to stay
Ira and Eleanor are both at home Living back in the same old place They did before they went to roam In distant lands of a different race
And Dad! They have a baby son And Dot has a boy that's half past two, A little girl Cathy for Ciba has come And Beth has a little girl Sue.
I'm sorry I grieved for you tonight Some day, I'll be coming along. And so until then, I'll say good night Then next my good morning song.
Sunday night, March 2, 1947
MY TRUSTY OLD CANE
My grandson and I and my trusty old cane Went walking today, right after the rain The flowers were fragrant, all nature was green The sun had come out in a bright golden sheen No garden this year with tomatoes red Or green beans or pepper or lettuce beds It took us some time to walk. over the ground You see, I am slow about getting around But together, we made it, my David and I And I am so happy there's a tear in my eye For the wonderful peace that is filling my soul The Lord is my Shepherd, I'm a sheep of his fold
WHEN YOU ARE BLUE
Did you ever stop to wonder at the beauty of a rose Or watch the tiny baby as it wrinkles up its nose Or listen to the warble of a bird upon the tree Or watch a squirrel that scampers along with every breeze?
Did you ever watch the sky with its fleecy clouds of blue Then turn to pink and scarlet and every kind of hue? Did you ever watch an airplane that soars up in the sky And think about the pilot and the crew that's passing by?
Did you ever thank your maker for the lovely things of earth When every green and living thing reminds you of His birth? Did you ever think of friends that we know are tried and true They remind you of a flower, the forget me not of blue?
Did you ever share a heartache with a loved one kind and good And dry their tears with sympathy because you understood? It‟s the little things in life that count which makes just living grand A smile, a gay, "How do you do?" a shake of someone's hand.
There's so much beauty in this world if we'l1 just look around And take with us the sunshine and leave behind the frown. Then count your many blessings when you start a brand new day And think of all the lovely things - then bow your head and pray.
UNTITLED HALLOWEEN POEM
The midnight hour is striking and the goblins ride about They are headed by the north wind and coming with a shout! Watch out for bats and beetles and pussycats that creep. And mother witch astride her broom and ghost that make you creep. Their coming to your very door with baskets for a treat! No treat? Then trick! and mind you, it won't be very sweet To see those awful creatures come creeping up on you. They'll make your hair stand out on end and then what will you do? Now treat or trick, which will it be this happy Halloween? Just lift our masks and you will see that we're not really mean.
THE TALE OF A RAT
Our dad was telling us one day about a rat A rat you couldn't catch with any trap So Dad and Grandpa set out with a vim To use their brains as how to capture him My grandpa started out with his old cane And waited for his chance to strike again He didn't figure that he'd make him mad He didn't know a rat could really bark But this one did. And it wasn't any lark For Mr. Rat who started on the run Straight for Grandpa when Grandpa raised his gun. Grandpa jumped aside, and did it pretty quick. Then Dad grabbed up a big old hickory stick And gave the old rat such a painful whack With just one blow he broke that sinner's back. And then my dad he winked at Mom and said, "We finished up the job." The rat was dead.
Several poems about April were written for a Ma Bell promotion
IT'S APRIL
Just give me a ring on my telephone For that April Date. I'll be home We'll plan on lots of things to do I'll wear my slacks and my old grey shoes With my fishing pole and a can of worms And a picnic lunch in the old boat stern We'll be free and happy and when you get home Just give me a ring on my telephone
APRIL (TWO)
April is the month you'll need that kitchen phone So if you haven't any, let's put one in your home The winter days are over and spring is in the air You'll need to call and check about that coming fare Of your vacation trip where the fishing is best A telephone within your home will help to do the rest
IT'S APRIL WITH A "SPRING-A-LING"
I stop to get the call From off my kitchen telephone That sits against the wall I pick up the receiver The colors are so pretty
With pink and white gingham checks The call comes from the city Oh! I've been baking apple tarts You'd better come on out I'll take off my kitchen apron Yes, I can always stop Now, while I'm waiting for that date Out in the April weather I'll give another Spring-A-Ling Another get together
MAY TIME
May time should be glad time when all nature is in bloom . ~ With daffodils and blue bells and sweet violets in full bloom Green grass and picnic tables and shade trees in the park With well-filled picnic baskets as we go out for a lark.
May time should be glad time for sweet summer on its way And we can share together in all the games we play Like hide and seek and blind man's bluff and farmer in the dell Or jump the rope and when we're tired we'll sit still for a spell.
May time should be glad times for fanners plant their wheat And all the other things that grow in rows all trim and neat Asparagus and sugar cane and cotton in the pod With rain to bring them to full growth done by the hand of God.
May time should be glad time as you dance around the pole A custom that is so much fun and yet so very old And so we'll choose a May queen and let that queen be you The pretty lassie Sharron who goes to Buder School.
Of all the months that's in the year, to me May time's the best We'l1 climb a tree and count the eggs laid in a robins nest Or lay out in the open and gaze up in the sky And count the stars in heaven, and thank God we're alive.
POEMS ABOUT NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS
THESE ARE MY NEIGHBORS
This is my neighbor. And this one too! 0h, yes! And you and you and you. It's a lovely neighborhood where I live. A place where each of them love to give A good morning smile. The shake of your hand, Or a bit of green from off the land. . . Like a mess of lettuce, a bouquet of flowers, A slip of a rose from off the bowers.
Where little children can play at ease Out in the open, as they drink in the breeze. Or share the glorious sunshine sweet, Or take a shower out in the street. If any of us should fall in need, They know how to do a golden deed. These are my neighbors I'm going back to When winter is over and the sky is blue.
When the flowers are blooming and the grass is green, And God in nature is plain to be seen, I'll sit on my porch, and when they pass by, I'll keep the twinkle within my eye, And I'll walk out and say, "Why, hello there, Won't you come up and sit in a chair'?" 0h, I wouldn't change my neighborhood, Because you are every one so good.
My neighbor, Mildred Shanahanm, gave us the roses. So I dedicate this poem to her.
LOVELY ROSES
A neighbor came into my yard today Bringing to me a beautiful bouquet Of roses that were yellow, pink, and red. Gorgeous in their beauty! So I said, "Thank you my dear," and then she went away She was always doing lovely things that way!
I arranged the roses in a vase; they looked so sweet An then I thought of someone that lived just down the street. Etta Williams is her name; she is so very ill. She would enjoy those roses as she took a bitter pill And so instead of keeping them, I passed them right along And then my heart just bubbled o‟er with tenderness and a song.
Two blessings for you Mildred. Yes, two instead of one For the gift of your dear rose. Like the brightness of the sun They shed a golden glow on two souls, and so, my dear, She loves them and I loved them. They gave us so much cheer. And so we want to thank you for your kindness and your love And may the good Lord bless you from His heavens up above.
APRIL 12, 1955
Thank you Dear Mrs. Hall for a lovely time today You entertained your company in such a lovely way. I noticed every movement was gracious, kind, and good From the playing of your game to the serving of your food. I loved your home, the way each piece of furniture was placed The lovely flowers all in bloom like gold and silver lace I used to see you in the church with your two sons along I watched you from behind your back, a queen upon her throne A very lovely lady, like a rose all fresh with dew A pleasure to remember, these are my thoughts of you.
THE HOUSE NEXT DOOR
There are two little boys in the house next door Their names are Butchie and Billie Moore. Butchie 's the oldest, he's not quite two Billie the youngest is rather new.
Butchie is perfect in every way Always happy and ready to play Full of mischief from morning till night Making a path of sunshine bright.
While little Billie just sleeps and grows Dreaming of elves and his ten little toes Smiles and coos every time he's fed Then grandma puts him back to bed.
Two dear little boys in the house next door And as I tread across their floor My thoughts fly back when other feet Came running homeward down the street.
Just children and you counted four And one of them now is Helen Moore. Ah me! It seems but yesterday They too were full of fun and play.
Three generations in the house next door Two generations across the floor Have romped and played and so you see, That's why the house is dear to me.
ROSEMARY'S CAT BUTCH
While I sat resting in my swing. I noticed such a pretty thing Walking across the street. It proved to be my neighbor's cat. He came and jumped into my lap, Then curled down on his feet.
I stroked his lovely yellow fur, And he began to purr and purr Until he fell asleep. He looked so snug, all cuddled there. As if he never had a care Or ever counted sheep.
Again, I looked across the road. Two girls with books that made a load Came strolling down the walk, One came directly on across To where I sat. With curls all tossed, She dimpled as she talked.
She noticed Butch within my lap, And softly calling to the cat, She gently spoke his name. Then said she'd have to send him home That he must never, never roam. For he was far too tame.
She knew he loved us neighbors well, But might get killed, why who could tell? The car might hit him flat, The other girl who was her chum, Came at her call upon the run And carried home her cat.
Dedicated to Rosemary and Butch on Rosemary's birthday.
DISH RAGS (originally untitled)
Dish rags we need, To do our deed Of washing up the dishes. So here are three As you can see Tied up with my best wishes,
Proverbs 18:24
There are friends who pretend to be friends, But there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.
Our friend Irma; called me up to say, "Mrs. Badgett, will you please lead the day By giving the devotional to this group?" Well, I do know that you're a wonderful troupe Of God's loyal soldiers, so please lend an ear Because I do love everyone of you here. Let's call ourselves neighbors as together we work For not one of us ever our duty should shirk If we can't do this, maybe we can do that Or one of you sing while another one smiles The little things in life are the ones that's worthwhile. So let's you and you and everyone here Be friendly from now till the end of the year. For this day, we begin and tomorrow it's over Our friendship will grow like red and white clover Entwined all around in everyone's heart Because we were friendly right now from the start.
Thank you Mrs. Jennings for a wonderful time The breakfast you served was really just fine. The table was pretty, the flowers were sweet And made such a beautiful center piece. The fruit was delicious; the coffee superb The rolls were simply made out of this world As we sang the doxology and each took a plate The congenialness of everyone really was great Your voice was so soothing, as you read from the book. Everyone enjoyed it, you could tell by their look. And now, Mrs. Jennings, I bid you adieu Next Sunday morning, I'll be looking for you.
POEMS ABOUT LIVING IN CHRIST
WHY DO I GO TO CHURCH
I go to church because my Lord is there! And I can worship Him in song and prayer I go to church because I love the crowd Of Christian people come to worship God! I go to church to hear the sermon through And when I leave my soul is blest anew! I go to church for memories so sweet Of sainted ones whom someday I shall meet! I go to church to give my widows mite I go to church because I know it‟s right.
GOD'S GOODNESS
It is God's goodness that the future remains an unread book Each day is a chapter, and if we would only look At one chapter each day, and take the day as it comes Remembering God and His wisdom as things well done -- Casting all cares upon Him for He careth for you. And He can be counted on to carry you through All difficult places; and so, my dear friend You can face the future with courage no end.
AS JESUS TAUGHT US
Our dear Heavenly Father, we come to you today Thanking you for thy dear son who taught us how to pray And Father, hallowed be thy name. May soon thy kingdom come, And while we're waiting here on earth, please let thy will be done. You did not promise us our wants, but just our daily needs, You taught us all we must forgive for every unkind deed. Please keep our hearts, dear Father, from doing what is wrong. Don't let us yield to sinful ways, but keep our bodies strong. We love to say "Our Father" for we're joint heirs with Him We're just thy little children and someday we shall win A home within thy Heaven and Father we shall see Your face with all the glory of the man of Calvary.
GOD'S LOVE (originally untitled)
I love you all so much my dears I'll miss you so when you're not here I wonder just what I will do? My lovely Lord will see me through I know He'll never turn me down I'll keep away from this frown And trust it all to His sweet will He's always taught me to "Be Still" Be still and know that I am God I hear Him say, as life I trod Now as I lay me down to sleep, I'm just one of your humble sheep So keep me safely through the night And when I wake at morning light, Please help me to obey Thy voice, For what is done will be Thy choice.
CHURCH GOERS
Some people go to church because their hearts are pure and true, And they really worship God in everything they do. There's a glow of Christ-like goodness that shines upon their face, And you'll always find them faithful within a Christian's place. They never gossip when they talk, about another's life, They couldn't be a Christian and always live in strife, No matter how they went to church, no matter how they lived. Instead of all the gossip, they would have a smile to give, With a loving look instead of hate, they would let God be the judge For when you black another's life, your own life you might smudge. So watch out for your doorstep, that you always keep it clean Before you sweep your neighbors, sweep your own, is what I mean. And so, dear lovely people, who are always true and kind To do good unto others, as you'd have them do to you, And be a loyal Christian, in everything you do.
THE LOAD WAS HEAVY
Tonight I packed a great big load Of longings and of tears. And started down a lonely road Through shadows filled with fears. My shoulders soon began to sag My back began to throb The load got heavier to drag And then I called on God. He took upon Himself the load At once my heart was free. As all the shadows left the road My Savior spoke to me. How often have I said "Be Still" And Know that I am God If you will only do my will On higher ground you'll trod Right now you're on the sinking sand Your faith indeed is small Why don't you take me by the hand And give to me your all I come, dear Lord, in grief and shame May I no more revere thy name Or pack the load alone.
A tribute to our officers, our hostess, and the members of our Rebecca J. Anderson missionary group.
OUR MISSIONARY GROUP
We salute you, our dear Grace No one else could fill your place As the chairman of our group You've been so faithful in your work We've never, never seen you shirk A duty to your troupe.
Lucille, we think you're mighty grand To you we all extend a hand In loyalty and praise Just to catch your winning smile Makes your life to us worthwhile And helps us when we pray.
A tribute to our dear Estell Who does her work and does it well Without a thought of self We leave the money in her trust Which takes the burden off of us So may you keep your health.
Now to our hostess we must bow For everyone is full by now Of such good things to eat We love these luncheons this is true And so dear, Rose, we give to you Our thanks for being sweet.
And now to each and everyone We know this work just must be done So we must hurry through By saying each one has her part. We'll do our best with all our heart In standing pat by you.
"THOU SHALT NOT KILL"
"Thou shalt not kill." the savior said. Yet millions now are lying dead From being murdered in a war. Then, shall I be a mother star By sacrificing my young sons? Just stand them up before the guns; Then say, "Go on, blow off their heads." They're just a few more humans dead. Or maybe it would be my daughter That war would trace across the water, My Dot, a dimple in her cheek, Just bombed into eternal sleep. American Mother, wake I pray, For there is work for us today. Let's send the cry across the sea That we stand for democracy. Let's shout it out from shore to shore That we want peace forevermore.
SHADOWS
Shadows shine in my fire tonight The air is crisp and still I see the cross my Savior bore Upon a distant hill.
And mother Mary standing there A weeping for her child Who took upon Himself our shame In Him there was no guile.
He died to save us from our sins They laid him in a tomb Hallelujah, He arose! The shadows vanish from my room.
For He is real within my heart As lamb of Calvary And in their place my Savior stands Through all Eternity.
A PRAYER
Dear God, I shut my eyes, what do I see The man who hung on Calvary His hands out stretched to me He endured the cross and took the shame As for our sins he took the blame
He suffered that for me. He suffered just like one of us By accusations so unjust And all without complaint His cross was heavy and a load To carry down a lonesome road And he became so faint.
But yet He overcame it all Forgave the world both great and small And we too must forgive He lifts the road from us to Him No matter just how great the sin And we look up and live
So teach me, Lord, humility The world might turn their backs on me But you are still my friend And teach me Lord to be so still And may I live in thy sweet will And now I say, amen.
DEAR PHILATHEA CLASS
You're invited my dears to come with me To gather around the old oak tree Its shady there and the grass is green Where God in nature is sure to be seen In every flower and rill,
I want you to bring your lunch along Right after lunch we'll sing a song And everyone will pray We'll reminisce about the past Of all those members of our class That silently went away.
But oh! the wisdom they did give To us as how that we should live To carry on their work We love them everyone so much Sometimes we feel their very touch To tell us not to shirk
The things that Christ would have us do With sufficient grace to see us through It may just be a smile Or feed the hungry, clothe the poor Visit the sick around our door And make our lives worthwhile.
The Philathea Class are loyal souls Some of us are growing old And cannot brave the weather But you that are both well and strong And young enough to come along Please join our "Get together."
And now we find the day far spent We're everyone so glad we went To sit on top God's hill You feel His very presence there He watches you with loving care And tells us to be Still.
THE REBECCA MISSION CIRCLE
Dear Grace, On behalf of the Rebecca Mission Circle, I want to say The loveliest thing happened to me today In the form of a beautiful gay bouquet. They were white carnations and ferns of green Which made it seem like some pleasant dream. The postman delivered them right at the door I was never more thrilled in my life before. As I opened the box and read the name, Rebecca Mission Circle it said, quite plain. They were such a wonderful, glad surprise The tears just gathered within my eyes. They match my new dress of black and white. In the morning, I'll pin them to look just right. And then I'll step out and hold my head high And I'll nod at my neighbors as they pass by. I shall wear them to church and sit down in a pew And very quietly be thinking of you And wishing you all could see how I look, And know how I love you. I'll sing from a book. Praise God from whom all blessing flows Like springtime and flowers and green things that grow Kind people and friendship and all things worthwhile, Like laughter and giving a sweet baby's smile. So thank you dear Circle, I'm so happy tonight. There's a lump in my throat as I'm trying to write And express all kind thoughts in my heart straight to you For those beautiful flowers. What a sweet thing to do!
GOD'S SNOW BLANKET
God in His infinite love last night Wove a blanket all of white To cover the little tender things That peep up early in the Spring.
His weaver's loom went round and round To weave a blanket on the ground To keep from coming all too soon The fragrance of a flower in bloom.
The budding of the fruit and trees The golden bells from shooting leaves. And all the lovely things that grow He covered with his flakes of snow.
Then when Spring comes so warm and bright, He'l1 lift the blanket and the light Of morning sun will warm things up The violet and the butter cup.
Then nature in her loveliness Will come forth from her winter's rest. All resurrected from the tomb, In fragrance sweet of bursted bloom!
SWEETER AS THE DAYS GO BY
Tonight a great song fell upon my ear. "Sweeter as the days go by" -- rang clear. It came from the choir. From where I sat, I listened and wondered whose voice was that Mingled so sweetly with another voice rare? Then I noticed the reverend sitting there Was gazing direct in his dear wife's eyes. It was she who was singing to my surprise! The song was so beautifully on the air That when it was finished, a stillness was there. A sermon in song which made the church ring With honor and tribute to Jesus Our King.
PAUL
Paul was going down Damascus Road Grumbling and cursing; with a bitter load Of hatred in his heart for Christian men. Suddenly a light appeared in front of him. A voice from heaven was plainly heard. And he was sore afraid; and so disturbed. "Why persecutest thou me?" the Savior said Paul fell down as one who might be dead. Men that were with him were speechless too. They heard the voice and wondered what to do. Paul opened his eyes and stood up on his feet, But for three days, he was blind and he did not eat. He called upon the Lord and asked Him what to do. He was trembling, repentant and very sorry too As he realized his sins in the deeds that he had done. He had persecuted Christians and slew them one by one. Jesus, the ever-loving Savior, was very pleased that night, And Ananias through his faith, restored to Paul his sight. His sins were all forgiven and he went.
DEAR HEAVENLY FATHER (was untitled)
Our Dear Heavenly Father, we come to you today Thanking you for Thy Dear Son who taught us how to pray. And Father, Hallowed be Thy name, may soon Thy kingdom come And while we're waiting here on earth, please let Thy will be done. You did not promise us our wants, but just our daily needs. You taught us all we must forgive for every unkind deed. Please keep our hearts, Dear Father, from doing what is wrong. Don't let us yield to sinful ways, but keep our bodies strong. We love to say, "Our Father," for we're joint heirs with Him We're just Thy little children and some day we all shall win A home within Thy heaven. Father, we shall see your face with all the glory of the Man of Calvary.
Reflections on Pilate
EASTER DAY
Jesus went into the garden of Gethsemane to pray His heart was overburdened and his strength was weak that day. He was so very human, and His cross was hard to bear. We're told he sweat great drops of blood as he was kneeling there. His disciples, too, were weary, and they had gone to sleep. So, left alone was Jesus, it makes my sad heart weep. And when He stood outside the gate of sweet Gethsemane, He gave Himself unto the mob to die for you and me.
They led Him on to Pilate, who found no fault in Him Then washed his sinful hands, and said he'd cleansed himself from sin. "This sin shall be upon your hands," he cried unto the mob. With bitter hate, they crucified the true and living God They mocked Him as He bore the cross and this inscription wrote, "Hail King of the Jews," then put on Him a king's own purple coat And then they made a crown of thorns and placed upon His brow And said "Yourself, you cannot save. If so, then do it now."
Oh, can't you see Him hanging there upon Mount Calvary, The Lord that died upon the cross that sinners might be free. But as you look, the scene is changed, the stone is rolled away Hallelujah! Jesus arose, and is alive today. Oh grave! Where is thy victory? Oh death! Where is thy sting? The glorious resurrection is shown throughout the spring When flowers bloom and birds are gay and buds are on the trees. It's Easter time, glad Easter time, for those who do believe!
THE RESURRECTION
Now, while I listen to the rain Tapping on my window pane I keep thinking of the Spring All the earth is turning green The smell of fragrance fills the air, There's resurrection everywhere,
Our Christ was resurrected, too I know that and so do you. He knocks upon your weary heart. Please let Him in, He might depart. Just take His gift, His gift is free A home through all eternity.
The clouds are gone, the rain has ceased. My soul is filled with his sweet peace I bow my head and softly pray That I will live His own sweet way And be submissive to His will And listen to His voice; "Be Still."
POEMS ABOUT CHRISTMAS
THAT FIRST CHRISTMAS
Everywhere about me I feel Christmas in the air With children all excited standing here and standing there Watching windows filled with gadgets and all the whirligigs Like electric trains and wagons and a little toy that jigs.
My thoughts go back to the baby that in a manger lay All wrapped in swaddling clothes on that first Christmas day. I see the face of Mary and with the awe and tender smile As she beheld the glory of the coming of her child
And of the lowly shepherds who were tending to their sheep Surprised and sore afraid when they heard the angel speak When suddenly a multitude of angels stood about Praising God and singing with a loud and might shout.
"Glory to God in the highest, on earth, peace, good will to men." I wish I too had been there to worship with them then. As the angels ascended to heaven the shepherds stood so still Gazing and looking upward, up on that lonely hill.
Then turning to each other they too began to speak "Let's go and find the baby of whom the angels speak." And when the shepherds found him, they knew that it was true That they were his first witness far the world to know him too.
And then I think of Herod. as he sent his wise men out To find the little baby that he'd heard so much about And the lovely star that led them to where the Christ child lay They gave him gifts and worshipped before they went away.
Then I think of mother Mary as the child grew big and strong -- Did she at every birthday sing to him a birthday song? Did she have his cake and candles as the children of today? Was he very quick and active in his work and in his play?
He must have been so gentle, and, oh, so very kind And many loving memories I am sure he left behind To ease a broken mother's heart as he died upon the tree To give life eternal to such folks as you and me.
Now as the Christmas carols peal out upon the air Let's bow our heads in reverence and breathe to him a prayer That we might think of someone less fortunate than we By giving gifts to others who are very much in need.
A PRAYER
As we assemble this Christmas eve Around the Christmas tree Lord give us understanding hearts Of love and sympathy.
We thank you Lord for Thy great gift The Gift of Thy dear Son With peace on earth, good wi11 towards men A gift for everyone.
Help us to see Thy guiding star As wise men did of yore And bring to him our gifts of love The same as long ago.
And as we pass these gifts around Help us dear Lord to see That at the birth of Thy dear Son We gain eternity.
And may this Christmas be to us, A Christmas filled with glee Then let it be a pleasant page In books of memories.
A PRAYER (prince of Peace)
Thou Prince of Peace, we pray that thou mayest really be accepted as King of Kings and Lord of Lords in human hearts. We pray often, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Thy kingdom upon earth would mean universal peace. We pray for national leaders around the world, that they might seek Thy kingdom upon earth.
CHRISTMAS
The Christmas spirit is in the air. Sweet chimes are ringing everywhere Proclaiming "Peace, Good Will Towards Men" It's the Christ child's birthday. And again In fancy, we see in the distant sky An eastern star from Heaven on high. The wise men following from afar, Guided by the glittering star.
At last they see their journey's end. The star has stopped above the inn, And lingers where the Christ Child lay In a stable's manger on some hay. With reverence and lowly tread, The wise men slowly bow their heads, And lift their voices as they sing A carol to their new-born King.
The wise men gave him gifts of gold, Frankincense and myrrh, so we are told. Then left the Babe and went their way Rejoicing for the glorious day. And as the Yuletide comes once more, Bestow some gift upon the poor. "As oft as ye give it unto these," Christ says, "Yes give it unto me."
Carrie holding Charles, Elizabeth, Oscar, and Catherine (Ciba)